Katherine D. Dale

As the sun rose over the sprawling mountains of the beautiful town of Vilters, Switzerland on 3-15-48, Katherine Dora Zimmermann was born to Benedict and Bertha Zimmermann. She lived a beautiful life, taking her from Switzerland, to Marshfield, Wisconsin, and eventually landing in Swanton, Ohio where she raised her three children. Her journey ended on 1-15-25 after a life filled with love, faith, warm hugs, and a sense of humor accompanied by the best laugh to ever bring a smile to your face.

Kathy, or “Chatty Kathy”, as her friends called her, attended school in Marshfield, Wisconsin, graduating from Columbus Catholic High School in 1966. She was one of twelve children of the Zimmermann family who owned “Zimms Cheese”, and also had a farm of their own.

Gardening, cooking, and birdwatching were some of her favorite activities, followed by her love of watching old movies and playing card games and Mexican train with friends and grandchildren. “Edelweiss Specialties” was her personal baking business in which she was known for whole grain breads, specialty breads, especially her famous “Oh Nana Banana Bread”, and her pepper jelly. Anyone who knew Kathy, experienced her kindness and compassion for others, a loving and generous heart, and felt her deep devotion to Jesus Christ. She was very proud of her Swiss heritage.

Kathy is survived by her children, Gary (Tammy) Switlick, Randy (Amy) Switlick, and Heidi Bisbee; grandchildren who she adored, Connor, Ella, and Maya Switlick, Jaden, Seth, and Aria Bisbee; siblings, Karl (Cathy), Pete (Sharon), Paul (Marilyn), Hank (Alonnie), Mary (Jim), and Tom; dear friends, Linda, Karen, and Jean; 59 nieces and nephews; and former spouses, Don Dale and Don Switlick. Those welcoming her into heaven besides her parents; sisters, Bertha and Helen; brothers, Bernard, Joe and Ben.

Family and friends may visit Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 4-8 pm at Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home, 501 Conant St. Maumee. The Funeral Mass for Kathy will be Friday, January 24, 2025 at 10:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Maumee. Luncheon to follow mass at the church.

Special “Thank you” to the nurses and staff at Heritage in BG and Bridge Hospice, especially Allie, for your kindness and support in taking such great care of our mother. We really appreciate you. Those wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to the Society of St. Vincent De Paul, Toledo.